Delta Pen Plotter Draws In Multiple Colors
If youβre building your first plotter, or you just like thinking in right angles, youβd probably consider a Cartesian design for your build. [AndrΓ‘s Vujovits] went another route with his project, building an impressive delta pen plotter with a useful tool changer, to boot.
The build relies on a unique motion system, wherein two NEMA 17 stepper motors drive either side of the linkage to control the position of the end effectorβin this case, a pen carriage. By controlling the position of each side of the mechanism, itβs possible to move the pen through XY space. Running the show is an Arduino Nano, fitted with a GRBL shield and appropriate stepper motor drivers.
The magnetic tool changer is particularly nifty, too. It allows the plotter to grab a different ink at will to add more color to the drawing. Itβs well-designed, with the plotter able to change inks without losing accuracy or otherwise fumbling the switchover. The plotter uses Muji ball point pens, which are available in a range of colors and draw with slick, clean lines. Itβs also quite a fast plotter, thanks in part to [AndrΓ‘s]βs efforts to keep the pen carriage light by using a smart mechanism to offload the pen lifting actuator to the main body.
[AndrΓ‘s] has plans available, but youβre going to have to pay for them. Still, itβs always nice to see a new machine in the wild. Video after the break.